Joseph Clarke Mathews
Heaven is a better place because he is there, but earth has lost one of its best.
Born in New York City, Joe grew up in Dallas and learned the meaning of responsibility from an early age. As a young man he worked at the original Caruth Stables mucking stalls where he became very good with horses and hard work. He graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School and earned both his undergraduate and law degrees from Texas Tech University where he was a member of the SAE fraternity.
He was a successful and highly respected lawyer and partner for the firm of Hunton & Williams. His practice focused on a wide variety of corporate transactions, and he was selected as a “leader in his field” by Chambers USA for the years 2008 – 2012. In addition, Joe volunteered with the firm’s Veterans Pro Bono Program assisting veterans and active duty personnel seeking veteran and military benefits. Joe also served on the Board of Directors for the National Veterans Legal Services Program. Over the past two years, Joe has pursued his dream to become a Reserve Police Officer with the Dallas Police Department.
By far the most important part of Joe’s life was his family. In 1987 he married Kim Mylene Cunningham. They were partners on many levels and especially in their strong faith in God and His complete wisdom and goodness. They were very active at Highland Park United Methodist Church, and Joe was a frequent volunteer for the Carpenters for Christ program. Joe and his son, Hunter, were best friends and shared many years of hunting, enjoying the outdoors, shooting clays and hanging out. Joe’s daughter, Madison, was the essence of pure joy for him. He was so proud of her beauty and grace. As well as being an avid hunter, shooter and outdoorsman, he enjoyed cycling, snow skiing and fly fishing.
By any definition Joe was a rock of integrity and dedication; a man who never lost his principles. Most would say, “He is the nicest guy I know.”
Joe is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Kim, their son Hunter, daughter Madison, mother Joanne Hill, sisters Jan Olavarri, Alisa Schulte, Sara Simon-Behrnes and husband Walter Behrnes, brother Paul Simon and wife Annie, mother and father-in-law Claire and Dale Cunningham, Kim’s sisters Cheri and husband Bill Flynn, Jill and husband Allen McGinness and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial service was held at Highland Park United Methodist Church at 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 7, 2013 .
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joe’s name to the United Way, HPUMC, the National World War II Museum in New Orleans or a charity of your choice.
